Railings serve a primary function of ensuring safety. However, while their functionality remains paramount, they can also contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of a design, making a lasting impression. Two distinct railing options, namely glass and stainless steel railing, offer distinctive design aesthetics without sacrificing safety.
The cost of a project can vary depending on factors such as the project's scale, customization options, and materials utilized. Which material option provides the most value for your budget?
Modern Glass Railings
Glass railings provide a contemporary visual appeal, allowing for improved visibility compared to alternative infill options. When combined with aluminum, glass railings deliver an unparalleled combination of modern safety and style.
Glass Railing Pros
Glass railings are a stunning addition to contemporary spaces that not only enhance visibility but also elevate the overall design. Additionally, glass railings offer the added benefit of customization to meet specific design needs. An excellent example of this is the SB-ISD railings design near Houston, TX, which features glass infills in three distinct shades of red to infuse a sense of excitement and movement in the space.
Moreover, the tempered glass utilized in glass railings is exceptionally robust and provides increased coverage in areas where traditional railings pose a risk to children or pets. Glass is also incredibly durable and can withstand both indoor and outdoor environments
Glass Railing Cons
It is worth noting that glass is susceptible to displaying fingerprints, and due to the larger surface area of glass railings, additional cleaning may be necessary to maintain a smudge-free appearance. Moreover, in outdoor settings, glass railings may pose an unseen hazard to birds and other wildlife. Additionally, it is important to consider that glass may be more expensive compared to other materials due to its premium appeal.
Modern Stainless Steel Railings
Stainless steel railings provide a low-maintenance solution that adds a sleek and contemporary touch to a range of settings, including stairways, walkways, balconies, and decks.
Stainless Steel Railing Pros
Stainless steel railings are renowned for their exceptional durability and require minimal maintenance, primarily periodic cleaning, which can be accomplished swiftly by running a cloth with a mild cleaner along the length of the railing. The infill options for stainless steel railings are diverse, ranging from picket panel systems that emulate traditional balustrades, perforated metal, wire mesh, and cables, and it can be incorporated with wood or used as a freestanding system. All these choices allow for a high degree of customization to create an ideal railing design.
Stainless Steel Railing Cons
Although stainless steel is a low-maintenance material, it is worth noting that it can accumulate fingerprints, necessitating regular cleaning to retain its luster and shine. For projects near the ocean, it is recommended to use marine-grade stainless steel, due to their higher corrosion resistance properties.
Glass and Stainless Steel Railing Design Ideas
The choice between glass or stainless steel railings ultimately depends on individual design preferences and budget constraints, as both options offer limitless design possibilities.
